The Difference Between Paints

by Gillian Markson | More from this Blogger

16 Jun 2006 04:05 PM

When painting your home, it is important to be well aware of the different types of paint that are available for your project. These paints include not only a wide variety of interior paints, but also exterior paints, floor paints and protecting paints. Here is a brief overview of some of the most common types of paint that people choose for their homes.

Chalk paint Chalk paint is a modern alternative to purchase a chalk or dry-erase message board. The paint is applied to any surface in the same manner that ordinary paint would be applied. After 48 hours of drying, you can write directly onto the surface of the chalk wall with ordinary chalk.

Dry-erase paint Much like chalk paint, dry erase paint is a fun and upscale way to create a message board out of an entire wall. Dry erase paint is applied like any other paint and requires a good 48 hours to dry before any dry-erase markers can be applied to it.

Gloss Gloss is a type of paint generally reserved for home interiors. Like any wall paint, gloss should be applied on top of a coat of primer. Generally, it takes two coats of gloss to really stand out. People select gloss paint over other types because it helps to add shine and kick to an ordinary surface. While many people avoid using gloss for surfaces such as entire walls, they do use gloss for floors and trim. Gloss paint gets its name because it does tend to reflect light more brilliantly than other types of wall paint.

Metallic Paint Metallic paint is most often applied to objects that could easily be passed off as metal objects, such as lamps, and appliances. Most often, metallic paint is applied using a spray can, which is quick and easy. When using metallic paint, many people like to create an antique feel to the piece by also layering a darker coat of paint on top of the metallic paint and then wiping it semi-clean with a damp sponge.

Exterior Paint Exterior paint is more durable than simple interior paint. It is designed to hold up under all weather conditions, including rain and snow. Thus, it tends to be thicker to apply.

Floor Paint Floor paint, like exterior paint, is thicker and more durable than ordinary paints. It is applied in similar fashion to other paints, using a roller and/or paintbrush. However, it has more protecting qualities that help to make the paint last longer. In addition, floor paint is made up of an acrylic-plastic base that gives it a smooth and absorbing texture.

Primer Primer, otherwise known as base coat paint, is the special type of paint that is applied to a wall before the top layers of paint. The primer goes directly on a prepared surface. Once the layer is completely dry, primer paint then helps to hold onto the top layer(s) of paint in all conditions. Primer paint, like any layer of paint, should always be applied evenly and in a thin layer so that it does not dry irregularly.

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